benefits

Washes away debris without stripping or drying.

Calming agents help soothe and purify skin.

how to use

Following the application of PreCleanse, gently lather a small amount of gel in moistened hands and apply to dampened face and throat. Rinse with warm water. Follow with Multi-Active Toner and prescribed Dermalogica Moisturiser.

quick tip

Use with Exfoliating Face Brush for a dual-action exfoliating cleanse.

part of skin health product system

Start with Dermalogica’s skin health essentials, designed to deliver your best skin daily.

We are dedicated to maintaining the accuracy of the ingredient lists on this website. However, because ingredients are subject to change, we cannot guarantee that these lists are complete, up-to-date and/or error-free. For an accurate listing of ingredients in each product, please refer to your product packaging.

skin health

Skin health maintenance is as important to your daily care regimen as brushing your teeth! Start with Dermalogica’s skin health essentials, designed to deliver your best skin daily.

how it works

All Dermalogica products are made in the USA and are free of artificial fragrances, artificial colors, drying S.D. alcohol, and ingredients like Mineral Oil – all of which are known to exacerbate common skin concerns. With cutting-edge formulas and powerful ingredients, you can be assured you’re giving your skin what it needs to be healthy, and stay healthy, for a lifetime. Maximize your product results! Use Dermalogica products as prescribed by your Face Mapping® skin analysis, available only from a Dermalogica Professional Skin Therapist.

I love the texture of this cleanser - feels luxurious! I use each morning in the shower and it leaves my skin feeling fresh without drying out. I’m a fan!

Leanne

1/11/2018

Love this

I love this cleanser, it had been hard to come by in some of the places I travel so I thought I’d try something different but my forehead continued to break out! . Back to dermalogica it was! This cleanser is gentle enough on my dry skin but still has that foaming texture I prefer and keeps the breakouts at bay. Plus it lasts and lasts, a little goes a long way.

Tammy

28/10/2018

Best cleanser I've ever used

Hands down this is the best cleanser I've ever used. It feels really gentle but it really cleans the skin. You only need the tiniest amount so the bottle lasts for ages.

Liz

10/09/2018

Gives my skin a nice clean feel

Used for over 12 months now and is a must have in my routine.

Mika

6/08/2018

Everyday winner

Have been using this product for years and it’s an amazing staple. Gentle yet effective the consistency is perfect, smells great and paired with the 3 step process has saved my skin. Have recommended it to friends and family who have also never looked back.

Chantelle

5/08/2018

Soo good

I suffer from terrible hormonal cystic like acne on my chin and have been using this for a week- holy heck this is the best my skin has looked in months, my skin isn’t flared up or painful like usual- amazed at how fast it works, how clean my skin feels and it doesn’t dry out my skin either-bonus!! Can’t wait to see if it continues to work further down the track.

Symarah

4/07/2018

Amazing!

Such a great product! Makes my skin feel so smooth and clean every time I use it!

Alex

26/06/2018

Awesome Product!

I have used this cleanser for years and it does such a great job and its so simple and easy. I get compliments on my skin all the time!

Megan

2/05/2018

Super gentle

I love this! It has a gentle scent and does an amazing job. Paired with the exfoliating brush my skin is squeaky clean

Rebecca

25/04/2018

Perfect cleanser for all skin type

Super gentle and ph-balanced. I have lash extensions and this non-oily cleanser gets rid of my make up thoroughly and doesn’t effect my extensions. Highly recommended!

Jessie

24/03/2018

Love it!

Great product, I've been using it for years now and I still love it. I've tried a couple of different things once in a while but keep coming back to this cleanser.

Pia

5/12/2017

Can’t live without it

Used twice daily for the last 2 years and it has made a huge difference to my skin. Best Cleanser I have ever used and makes a great deep cleanser every week when I leave it on for 10mins.

Nicola

23/10/2017

Love it

I first tried the sample size but ended up getting the big size as it was just so good for me. Cleans the skin beautifully without being too hash and doesn't dry my skin out. Best cleanser I have ever used.

Margeaux

7/10/2017

Nice and gentle

Lovely face wash. I have used every morning for a couple of years now and it is a great way to start the day. Nice and gentle but cleans the skin thoroughly. Not drying at all and you only need to use a tiny amount.

Becky

12/09/2017

Won't use anything else now

My chin was always prone to breakouts, but since stumbling across this Special Cleansing Gel, the issue has sorted itself out. I won't use anything else now! A little also goes a really long way so it lasts for ages.

Holly

30/08/2017

Great product!

Amazing, my new go to!

Danielle

9/08/2017

Best cleanser ever

Have been using this cleanser for years and absolutely love it. Wouldn't use anything else :)

Elizabeth

1/08/2017

Amazing product

I've been using this cleanser for 10 years and as a result, my skin went from pretty average with breakouts to nearly flawless all the time. It's lightweight and doesn't feel as if it's stripping your skin like some other cleansers can. Would absolutely recommend.

Margaux

25/07/2017

Best cleanser ever

It makes my skin feel cleaner than it ever has without drying it out and my skin tone is looker more even!

Charlotte

23/07/2017

A little goes a long way!

Leaves my skin feeling refreshed and clean, gently foaming and a little goes a long way, doesn't dry out my skin either which is a bonus!

Crystal

20/07/2017

Feels great!

Love that you only need to use a little bit each time and it makes my skin feel soft

Lesley

11/06/2017

Special Cleansing Gel

Love this special cleansing gel! A little goes a long way and it leaves your face feeling clean and fresh. No tightness or dryness after using. Highly recommend it.

Nicki

31/05/2017

Special Indeed

Love how it lathers - it feels smooth, silky and bubbly. Skin feels amazing after rinsing without over drying. Highly recommend.

Tiffany

22/05/2017

Special cleansing gel.

I have tried many of Dermalogica's beautiful products, but this cleanser is by far my favourite. It leaves my skin feeling clean and fresh and it doesn't dry my skin out. I highly recommend.

carly

20/05/2017

the best

I love this cleanser, works amazing and gives me a chance to wear my own skin not a make up . thank you

I love this cleanser as it makes my skin feel fresh and clean without any tightness or artificial smells. It's has a very natural feel to it.

Lisa

27/03/2017

Fresh and clean, without that tight feeling on your cheeks and forehead

Amazing cleanser - love it! Definitely give it a go!

Rachael

4/03/2017

The ultimate cleanser

I've been using this cleanser for close to 10 years. I tried dermalogica when I was struggling with skin issues and break outs and it is the only thing that has ever worked for me, hence never gong back to any other products! Would highly recommend (and do!!) to anyone wanted to refresh their face :)

Margaux

1/03/2017

Great for oily skin

This cleanser is great for oily skin. After cleansing it feels clean but not too drying. The smell is refreshing too, you only need a little product each time.

Before using the Dermalogica range, I went from brand to brand, product to product, wanting to find something that works for me. All that stopped as soon as I was introduced to Dermalogica. This cleanser is awesome, cleans really well without drying out. Love love love it!

Sabeena

18/09/2016

Perfect everyday cleaser

I love this cleanser. It is light and gentle and you only need to use a little bit for it to foam up nicely. It smells divine too. Highly recommend.

Emily

26/08/2016

Great for sensitive skin

This is the best cleanser for sensitive skin! It just makes your face feel soft and fresh all day and night!

Emma

25/08/2016

Great

This cleanser is amazing for taking my make up off without the drying effects of some other cleansers. Definitely recommend

Courtney

12/08/2016

Clean and fresh

I love this cleanser. It removes make up and grime wonderfully while leaving skin soft and fresh. Love the big pump bottle too which lasts for ages.

Janine

2/08/2016

Love this cleanser

The best cleanser I have ever used, keeps my skin clear but is really gentle.

Esther

29/07/2016

Best Cleanser!!

I have finally found the perfect cleansing product! This product is the only cleanser I have used that literally removes all make up and melts away all mascaras -not leaving me 'panda eyed' or feeling tight in the face after my shower! All this plus it isn't drying and you only need a tiny bit! Totally recommended

Amy

19/07/2016

A little goes a long way

I had my doubts when this was prescribed for me, having had terrible skin from my teens to my thirties, and thinking I needed Medibac EVERYTHING to deal with it...but a wee squeeze of this on my konjac sponge morning and night, and my skin has never been happier! Feels balanced, light, moisturising and gentle - I love it!

Campbell

6/07/2016

Love love love it

I have been using this product since 1997 that's right 1997!!! Absolutely love it, cleanses my skin beautifully and so easy to use, really economical as only a small amount needed to do the job Love love love it thanks Dermalogica

Teeny weeny

14/06/2016

Great cleanser

Leaves my skin feeling so clean, I also have sensitive skin and this doesn't irritate my skin at all.

Morgan

14/06/2016

Great product

Leaves skin clean without stripping out moisture great for combination skin like mine. I also have sensitive skin and no redness or tightness with this cleanser will buy again.

Adele

11/06/2016

Favorite Dermalogica product!

There is no other cleanser that will make your skin as clean and clear as this one – try it, and I bet you never go back to whatever you were using before.

Steph

9/05/2016

Love it!

This cleanser is great for oily skin it leaves it looking fresh and clean removing all excess oil with out drying. Even my husband uses it everyday.

Candice

8/04/2016

Great everyday cleanser

Awesome - cleansers well without any drying and leaves skin feeling clean and looking fresh without any tightness. good for the family to all use in the easy pump bottle in the shower.

Sarah

3/04/2016

Great Cleanser

I have a combination skin type and this doesn't dry my skin out like some cleaners do.

Helen

28/03/2016

Best cleanser ever

Amazing product - I've been using this for years now! So so good

Nicola

22/03/2016

Luxury cleanser

Such a treat to use on my skin after using the pre cleanse. I look forward to my routine every day.

Tara

18/03/2016

Awesome

This cleanser is fantastic. Your skin feels so clean and soft after using. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone.

Nikki

27/02/2016

Great product

Leaves my skin feeling fresh and clean but not dry. Great product.

Annie

26/02/2016

SCG, Quality&Quantity, all-in-one...

This product never seizes to surprise me, with or without precleanse this cleanser works amazingly, very gentle on the skin and keeps it clean... Recommend to everybody... Thanks Dermalogica, keep it up...

Hunter

1/02/2016

Special cleansing gel

Best cleanser ever. Last a long time as you only need a small amount. Skin feels great after use Great for sensitive skin.

Gayelle

21/12/2015

Good value for sensitive skin

I find the pump bottle good value as you need such a small amount to cleanse with, & suits my sensitive skin for everyday use

k

14/12/2015

Best cleanser out there!

I have used special cleansing gel for years and years now, it's the best!!!! It makes my skin feel clean without stripping away the natural oils. Thanks Dermalogica!

Sophie

8/11/2015

Great for combo skin!

I have a mixture of dry,to oily and a terrible t-zone. The special cleansing gel seems to keep it all at bay, and i love the feel when you're applying. Very refreshing!

Emma

3/11/2015

Never Looking Back!

I received a sample of this through a MOOCHI Dress Week Giveaway - enjoyed it so much I have continued to purchase it for the last 18months. I get comments all the time at how clear my skin is - I am definitely never looking back... This is my Number One each day.

Tessa

2/11/2015

Great!

Leaves my skin so soft. I noticed the difference in how clear my skin was after only a few days!

Georgia

27/10/2015

Leaves skin feeling amazing

I have tried different products for years, and have finally found something that works. It removes make-up and leaves my sin feeling fresh and oil free.

Jo

30/09/2015

an amazing cleanser

An amazing cleanser that the whole family use.

Sara

31/08/2015

Gentle but does the job well

Only a small amount of product is needed to effectively remove make-up and oiliness. The cleanser foams well and does not strip the skin of moisture. I'm very happy!

Kirsten

4/06/2015

My sensitive skin can finally be washed with a real cleanser!!

For years i used products too heavy for my skin as i found creamier products caused less irritation. I always felt like my skin was never clean and i always had breakouts that i couldn't control as breakout based products stripped my skin and left it raw. ..... until i went to a beauty salon and they recommended this. It actually changed my life. I could use a real cleanser and finally target my skin issues without creating more or leaving my skin a aggravated mess. Plus it lasts for ages!! Thank you Dermalogica!!

Sarah

30/12/2014

Glad I stuck with it

I used this cleanser for a good 6 months and probably would have considered changing to something more clearing but I am glad I waited. I love the gel, it is very foaming and kind to my skin. I am very reluctant to try other products now - it's great.

Sammy

5/03/2014

favourite product

This is the best cleanser ever- it suits the whole family's skin, it's easy to use [just add water], and removes make up. And it's so economical!

angela

29/01/2014

It makes a difference

I've been using this for several years now and I think it's made a difference in how my skin looks and feels. The pump version is perfect for the shower.

Karen

15/01/2014

Love this cleanser

I started using the Dermalogica range about 8months ago after a very bad experience with a trial range of skin care (from a very well known/well respected brand I might add!) that stripped my skin of moisture, turned the PH upside down and gave me my first ever taste of acne... a form of adult acne diagnosed by my doctor. The worst skin of my life (I'm 32) and not fun! I didn't want to go down the drugs or dermatologist track so after consulting a beautician for help I started using Dermalogica alongside some health supplements. After a month using their range, including this cleanser, my skin was almost back to normal. And happy to say shortly after I had my clear skin back, managed to avoid any scarring from the experience (beyond the psychological kind...) and it's never looked better. Thanks for the great products, I only wish I'd tried them first and saved myself weeks of terrible skin! (p.s. if you're allowed to name other brands in here it was the Clinique 3 step programe that did the damage, will never touch another one of their products ever again!)

Lynley Roberts

31/03/2012

AMAZING!!

I Love Special Cleansing Gel so much I have brought extra supplies to travel overseas with! I keeps my skin clear and fresh and I cant live without it. Thanks Dermalogica!!!!

Bex Hielkema

15/03/2012

Does just what it's supposed to do... It IS Special!

This was the product my beautician recommended that I could absolutely never live without. It cleanses without drying, is perfect for use in the shower. Prior to my Dermalogica addiction, I had sensitive skin skin that differed between being spot-prone & dehydrated. An annoying mix! I now use a system of Dermalogica products (including this one) that works bliss on my skin. Wish I'd discovered it all years before I did!

Kim

18/07/2011

Finally something works!

I have lived with a predicament with my skin for years - namely that I have very sensitive skin (to the point where a dermalogica consultant asked if there is rosacea in the family!! eep as there is!!) but I also have heavy congestion and gigantic, moon crateresque pores with an oil slick for a t zone. So I have struggled to find something that is sensitive to my redness but mops up the nose messiness. All supermarket products have been tried and generally failed - with reactions, break outs and even a wonderful case of dermatitis. Hence I ventured into Dermalogica to explore my options - and was told that the special cleansing gel was for me. And it was! It is soothing yet cleans my skin beautifully leaving my skin fresh without being dry or irritated! Heavenly relief for my face - and a great investment as it has lasted me much longer than anything the supermarket has provided before.

Tania Anderson

16/07/2011

Love this cleanser!

I saw a review for Dermalogica's Special Cleansing Gel in a magazine years ago, which recommended this product for anyone who was suffering from blemishes and dull skin tone. I thought I'd give a try - I had nothing to lose as my skin was constantly breaking out and leaving me in a state of despair (as I was well out of my teenage years). It's been almost 8 years since I first starting using this cleanser and I will never go back to anything else! My skin looks fresh and clear, this cleanser is safe enough to use on sensitive/spot-prone skin and is wonderful for taking off makeup at night.

I cannot recommend this cleanser highly enough, and if you are like me and nervous about trying new products as you tend to react to them - don't fear, this is worth a try. Since having such a good experience with this cleanser I'm now addicted to it, along with Dermalogica's Active Moist, Clearing Gel and Daily Microfoliant too.

Don't waste your money buying yet another cheap and nasty cleanser that makes false promises. This cleanser WILL improve your skin condition and help you face the world!

Michelle

14/07/2011

Beautiful

This is a beautiful cleanser that leaves your skin smooth, and clean without feeling like you have just stripped your face.

Greta Pearce

3/02/2011

Gentle Dirt and Oil Obliterator!

If you've read any of my other reviews you'll know you're dealing with a serious junkie!

As well as using my essential cleansing solution and ultra calming cleansers I love to swap to this one every once in a while, especially over summer when my skin's oil production hits it's all time high! It removes dirt and oil without irritation and keeps my breakouts to a minimum. I always have a bottle of this in my trusty cupboard for whenever my skin needs extra clearing!

I highly recommend these products to anyone especially friends and family!

Alexis Fletcher

5/11/2010

Fantastic

The special cleansing gel makes my face feel smooth and clean. You won't regret trying and buying this product.

Emma

14/10/2010

Amazing!!

I have combination skin and this is just perfect! It makes my skin less oily without drying it out. I know i will not be using anything else again :)

Rosie

14/10/2010

Special Cleansing Gel - Truly The Best

I first used the sample product offered to me by my beautician in Auckland city. I loved it so much I decided to buy the 250ml bottle. This is truly the best cleanser I have ever used. It cleans out the dirt and all of my heavy makeup each night. It's so light and so smoothing on the skin. I used to have breakouts on my forehead and I have seen since I started using the Special cleansing Gel my skin is clear with no acne or blemishes. I simply recommend this product as the best cleanser!

Sara

14/10/2010

Gorgeous!

A wonderful cleanser that leaves you feeling squeaky clean - without the squeak!

Wendy Johnson

3/07/2010

Love at first use :)

As soon as I started using Special Cleansing gel, I knew there would be no turning back - A year later I couldn't be happier. It's gentle but at the same time, tames the most problem acne. Try it! You won't be sorry :)

Melanie Bevan

24/06/2010

Special Cleansing Gel is the best

The first time I used this it helped clear up my skin....you have to get it!